Republican Lawmakers Explain Taxpayers Don’t Have To Give-Up Their Refunds
Colorado Republican lawmakers are taking action to address the state's property tax mess without resorting to raiding the citizen's TABOR refunds. Three bills were introduced on Wednesday, along with a plea to Governor Jared Polis to bring the legislature back for a special session.
These proposals mirror the legislation passed in 2023 which created Proposition HH, the ballot measure that voters will decide on in November. However, there are some key differences between the two, with Republicans arguing that their plan offers a better solution for Colorado taxpayers.
Democrats, on the other hand, were quick to dismiss the Republican proposals as a publicity stunt to sway voters to reject Proposition HH. Under this measure, TABOR surplus revenue would be used to reduce property taxes and fund various local governments, but would result in a loss of $5,119 in TABOR refunds over the next 10 years for the average Colorado taxpayer, according to the Common Sense Institute.
In contrast, the Republican plan includes a one-time equalized TABOR refund to all taxpayers, with estimated refunds of $833 for single filers and $1,666 for joint filers. They also propose doubling the senior/veteran’s property tax exemption and making it portable.
Additionally, the plan would lower assessment rates for residential and commercial properties.
House Minority Leader Mike Lynch of Wellington expressed the hope that Governor Polis would call a special session to address these issues, noting the historic disadvantage that Republicans face in the legislature.
"We want the people of Colorado to understand that there is another way of doing this," Lynch said.
Leader Lynch explained the details on Ross Kaminsky show Wednesday KOA 850 AM & 94.1 FM. Click HERE to listen to the interview.
The call for a special session is not a new request from Republicans, but this time they have tangible proposals ready for discussion. Senate Minority Leader Paul Lundeen of Monument emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that "the people of Colorado need tax relief now."
The three ideas put forth by the Republican legislators aim to provide immediate relief for taxpayers. They also addressed concerns about funding for local governments, emphasizing the importance of working with them to find a solution that benefits both taxpayers and essential services.
READ MORE:
Despite the efforts of Republicans, Democrats continue to push for the passage of Proposition HH. Speaker Pro tem Chris deGruy Kennedy of Lakewood called the Republican proposals a "publicity stunt" and dismissed them as "fundamentally unserious." He argued that Proposition HH strikes a balance between property tax reductions and funding for vital services.
However, Republicans remain undeterred, stating that their proposals offer a better solution for Colorado taxpayers. They hope that Governor Polis will reconsider his position on a special session and allow them to work towards meaningful property tax relief for the citizens of Colorado.